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Retail Operations Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

PetSmart Careers

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.87 - $35.77/hr

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Valparaiso, IN

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart Careers

Retail Operations Manager

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$17.16 - $29.48/hr

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.87 - $35.77/hr

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart Careers

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.87 - $35.77/hr

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Valparaiso, IN

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Valparaiso, IN

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$17.16 - $29.48/hr

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

PetSmart

Retail Operations Manager

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

Retail Operations Manager About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and ...

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Retail Operations information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do retail operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for retail operations in Chicago, IL is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $25.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is retail operations?

Retail operations refer to all the activities and processes involved in running a retail store or business efficiently on a day-to-day basis. This includes managing inventory, overseeing staff, optimizing store layout, handling customer service, and ensuring sales targets are met. Effective retail operations are essential for providing a positive shopping experience, maximizing sales, and maintaining profitability. The role often requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail to keep store functions running smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in retail operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Retail Operations, you need strong organizational abilities, inventory management expertise, and a background in retail or business administration. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and retail analytics tools is typically required. Exceptional customer service, leadership, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure smooth store operations, drive sales performance, and foster positive customer experiences.

What are the main challenges faced in a retail operations role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Retail Operations professionals often face challenges related to inventory management, fluctuating customer demand, and maintaining high levels of team productivity. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing situations are crucial for success. Building strong relationships with both frontline staff and suppliers can help address issues proactively, while leveraging technology for real-time inventory tracking and sales analytics supports more informed decision-making. Staying current with industry trends and regularly training staff also contribute to smoother operations and improved customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Retail Operations vs Retail Manager?

AspectRetail OperationsRetail Manager
Primary FocusOverseeing daily store functions, processes, and logisticsManaging staff, sales strategies, and customer service
Required CredentialsOften no specific certifications; experience in retail operations preferredTypically requires management experience and leadership skills
Work EnvironmentStore floors, back-office, logistics areasStore management, team supervision, strategic planning
Employer UsageRetail chains, stores, logistics companiesRetail chains, department stores, supermarkets

Retail Operations focuses on the day-to-day functions and logistics of running a store, while Retail Managers handle team leadership and sales growth. Both roles are essential in retail but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Retail Operations jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Retail Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Retail Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Retail Operations job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,643 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Retail Operations Manager

Blick Art Materials

Highland Park, IL • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Blick Art Materials rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 739 rated retailers

Job description

Your Role...
By exhibiting exceptional teamwork, boundless curiosity, and the utmost care, the Retail Operations Manager is to support the Director of Stores and District Managers as liaison between the stores and retail support departments. Secondary responsibility of the position is to execute the directives, policies and procedures of the company to ensure customer service, product sales and profitability.
Responsibilities:
  • Works directly with the Director of Stores to execute strategies and action plans to ensure business plan objectives are met.
  • Work with department managers to "gate keep" projects for the retail stores. Collaborate with department managers to ensure processes and timing of projects fit into the retail calendar and positively impact the business.
  • Regular scheduled travel to Blick offices in Galesburg and Highland Park to attend/facilitate meetings. Some travel to stores to work with store teams to identify areas of opportunity to positively impact the business.
  • Oversee updates to Loss Prevention audits working with our Loss Prevention partner, manage Store Visit Review compliance and updates as required to meet business needs.
  • Attend strategic meetings and collaborate with department managers to execute leadership initiatives.
  • Support the District Managers by being a liaison between the retail field and the office staff.
  • Partner with the Director of Stores to communicate initiatives to the stores.
  • Monitors progress of all training initiatives and regularly communicate with the Store Manager, Human Resources and senior management on progress and needs of the field team.
  • Update and develop policies and procedures to meet changing business needs.
  • Ensure appropriate information is communicated to all field employees in a timely and appropriate manner including; directives, initiatives, general information, feedback, etc.
  • Create tracking to monitor progress of Ops initiatives execution.
  • The position includes all other duties assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements for the position include:
  • Bachelor's degree in business or a related field recommended.
  • 3-5 years' progressively responsive retail management experience.
  • 3+ years' experience managing multiple stores.
  • Basic computer skills, including email, experience with Microsoft office products, etc.
  • Ability to break down complex problems into organized, succinct terms and communicate effectively to cross functional team members.
  • Extensive experience and ability to excel in delivering a high level of customer service in a brand image retailer.
  • Retail operations, budgeting, planning, customer service, sales and people management experience.

General Requirements:
  • Ability to work onsite in Highland Park office and travel monthly to the Galesburg office. Overnight travel on an occasional basis 20% of the time.
  • Self-motivating with an entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Excellent time management skills to complete time sensitive projects while adapting to changing circumstances.
  • Available to work day/evening shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Prolonged walking and standing.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. using appropriate lifting techniques and adhering to all safety rules.

Pay Rate:
The pay range below is provided in compliance with state/city specific laws. This pay range applies to this location. Pay ranges may be different in other locations.
  • $60,000 - $70,000 per year + Incentives

Benefits Include:
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • 401K & Profit Sharing Plan
  • Incentive Bonus Plans
  • Paid Holidays & Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Short-Term/Long-Term Disability
  • Training Opportunities
  • Basic & Optional Life Insurance
  • Employee Discount

Who We Are...
Founded in 1911, Blick Art Materials is in its third generation of family ownership, and is the largest and oldest provider of art supplies in the United States.
Our Mission...
At Blick Art Materials, our family owners and dedicated staff support the Visual Art Community by providing the widest selection of art supplies at the lowest prices. With extraordinary service and integrity, we strive to provide artists, educators, students, and our employees with the tools, assistance, and training they need to grow, innovate, and reach their creative potential.

What Blick Art Materials employees say

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